Scottish Ladder Manufacturer Futureproofs Business with Solar PV

Forfar-based family-run manufacturer, Ramsay Ladders, has taken a major step in future-proofing its operations with the installation of a solar PV system delivered by Forster Group.

The project forms part of the company’s long-term plans to reduce its carbon footprint, strengthen energy resilience and support the continued modernisation of its manufacturing facilities.

Founded in 1771, Ramsay Ladders has evolved from producing weavers’ reeds and combs for local factories to becoming a UK supplier of ladders, steps and bespoke access solutions. Today, most of its products are manufactured on site, serving a wide range of industries that all share a common challenge: safe and reliable access for working at height.

Matthew Lowson, Finance Manager at Ramsay Ladders, said: “We’ve been focusing on modernising our business over the last few years, making our operations more efficient while also future-proofing our factory for the next stage of growth. The introduction of new technology, such as our Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machining centre in 2021, has significantly increased our energy demands. With further machinery upgrades planned over the next five years, we recognised the need to invest in a more sustainable and cost-efficient energy solution.”

Solar PV Installation

The newly installed 36 kWp rooftop solar PV system comprises high-efficiency panels designed to reduce operational costs and carbon emissions. It is projected to generate approximately 29,450 kWh of clean energy annually, with estimated first-year CO₂ savings of 5,890 kg. With the system expected to pay for itself within seven years, all future electricity generated will enable the business to benefit from free, clean energy for the remainder of the system’s lifetime.

The installation was supported via the Angus Innovation and Growth Business Grant, funded by the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund.

The solar PV system was installed by Forster Group, Scotland’s largest integrated roofing and solar provider, with experience across agricultural, commercial and public-sector projects. Ramsay Ladders praised the team for delivering a smooth and efficient installation process.

Matthew continued: “Our preference was always to find a local partner for this project, and we would give Forster five stars from the word go. We worked closely with the team to carefully plan the installation, making sure it had as little impact on our manufacturing operations as possible. The team worked extremely hard to come up with effective solutions. Scaffolding was positioned to keep materials flowing in and out of storage, and the only period of electrical downtime was scheduled during the factory lunch break.

“We would not hesitate to recommend Forster Group to anyone considering a Solar PV installation. The team has been knowledgeable, efficient and reliable throughout. We were blown away by the fast turnaround once the project was approved and further impressed by how smoothly the installation was delivered. The whole team has been a credit to Forster Group.”

A Futureproofed Business

Looking ahead, the new solar PV system is expected to support long-term business growth by reducing operational costs and strengthening energy resilience, while also contributing to Ramsay Ladders’ carbon-reduction goals.

John Forster, Chair and Founder of Forster Group, added: “The benefits of integrating solar energy into businesses go well beyond cost savings. It’s a crucial step toward long-term sustainability and resilience. In today’s world of increasingly unpredictable energy markets, Scotland’s business community has a real opportunity to lead the way in decentralised, sustainable energy generation. Technology is no longer the limiting factor; the challenge now lies in improving awareness, easing grid access and ensuring consistent policy support.”

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